KANSAS WETLAND EDUCATION CENTER PLANS CHILDREN'S SUMMER PROGRAMS

From dragonflies to spiders and soil, kids learn about nature; preregistration requiredGREAT BEND — The Kansas Wetlands Education Center, on Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area northeast of Great Bend, will conduct a number of children’s programs this summer. These one-hour programs will be offered at no charge. Programs for kids age four through seven will run from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and programs for those age eight through 12 will run from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Programs include plenty of hands-on activities, with trips outside if possible. Each program will include activities, games, and/or crafts and sometimes a story.

Parents are asked to dress children in old clothes and shoes and bring sunscreen, insect repellant, and water. Children age seven and younger must be accompanied by an adult. The registration deadline is one week before the class. To register for a program, or for more information, phone 1-877-243-9268. There is a limit of 20 per class. Although there is no program charge, donations for supplies are appreciated.

The following programs will be held in July:

"Dancing Dragonflies," July 7 (register by July 1) — the aerial antics of dragonflies are matched by their power as predators of the air. Discover the two very different worlds dragonflies live in and search for them above and below the water. Make your very own dancing dragonfly to take home.

"Dog Days of Summer," July 14 (register by July 9) — from the rare black-footed ferret to the burrowing owl, many creatures depend upon the prairie dog and the habitat their "towns" create. Participants will investigate who shares prairie dog burrows and make a nesting wildlife chain.

"The Itsy Bitsy Spider," July 21 (register by July 15) — feared and misunderstood, spiders are fascinating creatures that create engineering marvels and complete amazing physical feats. Search for spiders and make a web.

"What's in the Soil?," July 28 (register by July 22) — the soil is a complex, interesting system with millions of inhabitants. Learn what is living under the ground we walk, make an edible soil profile, and get an up-close look at dirt.